Viral lower respiratory tract infection in <2 yr, usually RSV.
Clinical features
- • Coryza progressing to cough, wheeze, dyspnoea over 2–3 d
- • Poor feeding, irritability
Examination
- • Tachypnoea, recession, nasal flare
- • Fine crackles ± wheeze
- • Hypoxia
Investigations
- • Clinical diagnosis
- • SpO₂
- • NPA viral PCR if admitting
- • CXR only if atypical
Management
- • Supportive: O₂ to SpO₂ ≥92%, NG/IV feeds, suction
- • CPAP / HFNC if work of breathing
- • Admit if: SpO₂ <92%, apnoea, <50% feeds, RR >70, social
Clinical pearls
- • No role for β-agonists, steroids, antibiotics in typical bronchiolitis
- • Palivizumab for high-risk infants
Related in WardRound
Educational — verify locally.
